Poret, Hansen, Medori, and Mariani Triumph at World Aquabike Championships

In a thrilling finale at the Old Doha Port in Qatar, Estelle Poret, Oliver Koch Hansen, François Medori, and Roberto Mariani emerged victorious in their respective categories at the UIM-ABP World Aquabike Championship. The championship concluded on October 15, 2023, with these athletes sealing their titles in dramatic fashion during the final motos.

Poret and Koch Hansen Celebrate First World Titles

Estelle Poret secured her first Ski Ladies GP1 world title after a tense final moto. Entering the race with a 15-point lead, she faced fierce competition from Jasmiin Ypraus. Although Ypraus finished second, Poret’s podium finish ensured her championship victory. Benedicte Drange, despite a strong run, could not contend for the title due to a fuel pump failure in an earlier moto.

In the men’s Ski GP1 category, Oliver Koch Hansen clinched his maiden world title. He entered the final heat with an 18-point advantage over Jérémy Poret, and despite the pressure, he maintained his lead throughout the competition. Japanese rider Toshi O’Hara had already secured the bronze medal position, allowing Koch Hansen to focus on his title chase.

Medori Claims Third Title; Mariani Dominates Freestyle

François Medori added to his accolades by winning his third Runabout GP1 title, culminating in an impressive victory in Moto 3. The race took a dramatic turn when leading series competitor Jérémy Perez encountered technical issues on the parade lap, preventing him from starting the final moto. Medori capitalized on this misfortune, starting from the back of the field yet finishing strong to secure the championship.

Roberto Mariani showcased his skills in the Freestyle category, where he faced stiff competition from Team Abu Dhabi’s Rashed Al-Mulla. Despite Al-Mulla’s dynamic performance, which earned him the Grand Prix win with a stunning double back flip, Mariani’s consistent scoring secured him the overall world title with 223 points.

Hawair and Kaloti Shine in Asian Continental Championship

In the Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Championship, Emirati racer Amer Hawair claimed the title after a consistent performance throughout the series. He entered the final moto with a 10-point lead and successfully defended his position, finishing fourth in the last race. His championship was confirmed after Khalid Al-Maazmi received a penalty, promoting Hawair to third place in the final moto standings.

Daoud Kaloti, who won Moto 3, ended the competition strong, finishing just under 20 seconds ahead of Mohamed Abumaali. The competitive spirit displayed by all athletes throughout the weekend highlighted the thrilling nature of the sport.

This year’s championship in Qatar not only showcased individual talent but also emphasized the growing popularity of aquabike racing. As the season wraps up, the focus now shifts to the next series of events, with athletes eager to build on their successes.